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Conservation During the First Season of Archaeological Excavations at the Chogha Zanbil World Heritage Site, Winter 1999
Hamid Fadaei, Azita Mirzaye,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (10-2017)
Abstract
This study investigates and evaluates emergency conservation methods at the Chogha Zanbil archaeological site, focusing on the conservation of excavated features including shafts, shallow grids, and architectural remains. The primary objective of these interventions was to Conservation of Excavated Remains against environmental factors such as moisture, erosion, and gradual decay, either temporarily or over extended periods. The research methodology involved field observations, assessment of available materials, and reference to previous conservation practices at the site. The use of crushed gravel and sand with a variable grain size between 2 and 20 millimeters was recommended for backfilling trenches and shafts. Care was taken to avoid impurities such as gypsum, anhydrite, and various sulfates, which could contribute to the formation of soluble salts and damage the archaeological features. The protective coverage of shafts, networks, and the exposed brick platform was implemented in a phased manner, based on their depth and archaeological significance. For deeper shafts, stratified layers of gravel and soft soil with appropriate compaction were employed, while shallow grids were covered with a thin layer of gravel followed by backfilling with excavated soil. Special attention was given to the conservation of the inscribed brick platform, which was protected using a base layer of fine sand. The findings indicate that the use of natural materials combined with scientifically informed and experience-based approaches can be effective in the temporary or long-term conservation of excavated features in archaeological sites.

Technical Study of a High-Tin Bronze Vessel from the Bam World Heritage Site
Ramin Talei, Parastoo Naeimi Taraei,
Volume 2, Issue 2 (9-2019)
Abstract
With the advent of Islam, bronze temporarily replaced gold and silver in the production of metal vessels. Among the bronze artifacts used during this period, high-tin bronze (white bronze) objects, valued for their silver-like appearance, gained significant attention. One such artifact is a vessel discovered during debris removal operations following the 2003 Bam earthquake, located in the southern part of the Bam Citadel, specifically the southern section of the house known as Mir Akbar. Similar decorative patterns are found in artifacts from the Seljuk and Timurid periods. In this study, the artifact was examined using X-ray imaging, and microstructural analysis of a sample from the vessel’s base was conducted using reflected light optical microscopy after preparation. To further the technical investigation, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) equipped with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX) was employed to analyze the alloy composition and metallic and non-metallic phases. The results indicate that the vessel was produced through casting, with directional mechanical work causing elongation of non-metallic sulfide phases within the metal matrix. The microstructure of the vessel consists of single copper-rich grains dispersed in a needle-like beta phase rich in tin, characteristic of high-tin bronze (white bronze). After cooling, the alloy underwent heat treatment at approximately 650°C followed by rapid quenching, leading to the formation of the needle-like phase and resulting in the vessel’s hardness and brittleness.

Evaluation of Protective Coatings at the Takht-e Soleyman World Heritage Site and Assessment of Replacing Semi-Baked Semi-Crushed Gypsum Plaster Instead of Kahgel Plaster
Hamid Fadaei, Mohsen Charesaz,
Volume 4, Issue 2 (11-2021)
Abstract
Kahgel plaster has been a common method for protecting architectural structures at the Takht-e Soleyman World Heritage Site. Primarily applied to stone and brick structures, this plaster has proven inadequate in the site's mountainous, high-rainfall climate with sub-zero temperatures, leading to significant erosion. This study investigates the potential of replacing Kahgel plaster with traditional half-baked, half-crushed gypsum plaster as a protective coating for walls and architectural remains. The aim is to prevent moisture penetration while minimizing the new coating's own deterioration. Field research, including observation and documentation, was employed to gather data. Results indicate that the use of traditional gypsum mortar as a restoration material at the site has been successful. Derived from pounded and crushed kiln-fired gypsum stone, this mortar exhibits similar characteristics to the original mortars and offers adequate strength in the region's harsh climate. Consequently, it presents a viable sacrificial coating alternative to Kahgel plaster.

Conservation and Restoration of an Achaemenid Column Base from the Hundred-Column Palace in the Persepolis World Heritage Site
Hamid Fadaei, Fardin Naseri,
Volume 5, Issue 1 (3-2022)
Abstract
Persepolis is one of the most prominent remaining stone sites in Iran and the world, showcasing the traditions, culture, and customs of ancient Iranians, and is notable for its structural architecture and visual beauty. The Hundred-Column Hall is the largest columned hall in Persepolis after Apadana and was magnificently adorned with a hundred tall columns. Today, mainly the bases of these columns remain in their original place in this palace. Various stone pieces belonging to other column components, such as column shafts, capitals, and floral motifs, are scattered in the open space of the main hall of the palace, exposed to natural damaging elements and thus urgently requiring conservation efforts. This study focuses on one of the column bases (Base 4D) and, through library, field, and analytical studies and the implementation of an emergency conservation plan, aims to slow the degradation pattern of this limestone base. Previously, most restorations at Persepolis were conducted using sand-cement materials, but with changing perspectives and theoretical foundations in stone conservation, cement use has been discontinued due to its different water absorption and evaporation rates, expansion and contraction coefficients, and irreversibility. XRD analyses indicate that calcium oxide is the predominant component in the samples, with traces of silicate, aluminum, and iron also present in the stone composition. Other oxides are found in minimal amounts, and the stones used are high-purity limestone with low silica content. One of the outcomes of this research is the use of hydraulic lime-based materials known as "Ledan," combined with additives and fillers, applied to deficient and actively fractured sections. This protective mortar, highly compatible with limestone, has strengthened the resistance of cracks and fractures against moisture infiltration and significantly reduced erosion rates.

Typology of Tiles in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Takht-e Suleyman
Negar Kafilli, Fatemeh Alimirzaei, Somayeh Garakhani,
Volume 5, Issue 3 (12-2022)
Abstract
The protection of historical monuments has two aspects: one that considers the material features, and the other that considers its spiritual, artistic, historical, and aesthetic values. Therefore, the introduction, documentation and recording various historical works, as a part of the conservation and restoration process, not only promote the understanding and recognition of the values of art and culture, but also aid in their protection and revive. This research aims to address this protective need by introducing the collection of tiles of from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Takht-e Soleiman, as one of the valuable collections of Iranian art, known for its antiquity and diversity. To achieve this goal, a descriptive and analytical method was employed along with the examination and collection of field documentation and library studies. As a result of this study, over 5400 tiles were identified, including all kinds of exquisite luster tiles in diverse shapes and patterns, azure, turquoise, gilded tiles with embossed patterns, geometric tiles, samples of monochromatic tiles, and some brick tiles.

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